The murder trial of Jahseh Onfroy, better known as rapper XXXTentacion, has reached its conclusion. After 27 hours of deliberation, a jury found the three defendants—Michael Boatwright, Dedrick Williams, and Trayvon Newsome—guilty of first-degree murder and armed robbery.
This verdict brings a long-awaited close to a case that shook the music industry and left fans grappling with the loss of a rising star. Let’s take a closer look at the events leading up to that fateful day in June 2018, the key evidence presented during the trial, and the defense’s arguments.
The Events of June 18, 2018
On June 18, 2018, XXXTentacion was shopping for motorcycles with his step-uncle in Deerfield Beach, Florida. Surveillance footage captured XXXTentacion withdrawing a large sum of cash from a bank before heading to the dealership. Tragically, this seemingly ordinary errand would be his last.
Prosecutors revealed that the four men—the three defendants and an accomplice, Robert Allen—followed XXXTentacion to the dealership. Two of the men entered the store to confirm his identity, setting the stage for the horrific events that followed.
As XXXTentacion and his step-uncle were leaving the dealership, an SUV carrying Boatwright, Williams, Newsome, and Allen pulled up alongside their vehicle, guns drawn. While XXXTentacion’s step-uncle managed to escape, the young rapper was trapped.
In a senseless act of violence, Michael Boatwright fired multiple shots at XXXTentacion after robbing him of a Louis Vuitton bag containing $50,000 in cash. XXXTentacion, a young artist on the brink of superstardom, was only 20 years old.
CCTV footage of XXXTentacion inside Riva Motorsports minutes before being murdered.
The Prosecution’s Case: A Mountain of Evidence
Throughout the trial, the prosecution meticulously presented a compelling case against the defendants. Their argument centered on the idea that the murder was a targeted attack, a carefully planned robbery that ended in tragedy. They presented a significant amount of evidence to support their claims:
- Witness Testimony: Williams’s ex-girlfriend testified that he confessed to being present at the murder scene shortly after it occurred. XXXTentacion’s step-uncle, Leonard Carr, delivered a chilling account of the events, describing the moment the shots rang out.
- Incriminating Text Messages: Boatwright sent a text message shortly after the shooting stating, “Tell my brother I got the money for the new phone.” Minutes later, he sent a screenshot of a news article about the murder to an unknown individual. These messages clearly indicated his involvement in the crime.
- Matching Shell Casings: A crucial piece of evidence came from the lead investigator, who testified that shell casings found at the crime scene matched the brand and caliber of ammunition discovered at Dedrick Williams’ residence, linking him directly to the murder weapon.
- Robert Allen’s Testimony: Robert Allen, the fourth man involved in the crime, accepted a plea deal for second-degree murder in exchange for his testimony. He became a key witness for the prosecution, identifying Boatwright, Williams, and Newsome in court and detailing their roles in the murder.
The prosecution argued that the wealth of evidence, combined with the deliberate and calculated nature of the crime, painted a clear picture of guilt.
The Defense’s Arguments: Casting Doubt and Shifting Blame
The defense employed several strategies to counter the prosecution’s narrative. They attempted to discredit witnesses, highlight inconsistencies in the investigation, and even introduce alternative theories about the murder.
- Questioning Robert Allen’s Credibility: The defense attorneys argued that Robert Allen’s testimony should be viewed with skepticism. They pointed out that Allen was offered a reduced sentence in exchange for his cooperation, implying that his testimony was motivated by self-preservation rather than truth.
- Allegations of a Rushed Investigation: Dedrick Williams’ attorney, Maurice Padilla, suggested that the Broward County Police Department rushed the investigation due to the recent and highly publicized Parkland school shooting. He argued that investigators, eager to close the case quickly, overlooked potential leads and failed to conduct a thorough investigation.
- The Drake Connection: In a surprising twist, Padilla introduced the theory that rapper Drake might have been involved in XXXTentacion’s murder. He cited a public feud between the two artists and highlighted lyrics from Drake’s songs that he believed alluded to the crime. Padilla’s attempt to subpoena Drake for a deposition was ultimately unsuccessful.
Despite these arguments, the defense struggled to provide a cohesive alternative explanation for the overwhelming evidence presented by the prosecution.
A photo of Jahseh Onfroy, also known as XXXTentacion, at a concert in 2017.
The Verdict and Aftermath: Seeking Justice and Closure
After a lengthy trial and days of deliberation, the jury delivered a unanimous guilty verdict for all three defendants. While the sentencing phase is yet to come, the mandatory sentence for first-degree murder in Florida is life in prison.
The reactions to the verdict have been mixed. While many expressed relief that justice had been served, others continue to speculate about Drake’s alleged involvement. XXXTentacion’s family, however, has expressed gratitude for the verdict, finding solace in knowing that those responsible for his death will be held accountable.
The trial and subsequent conviction of XXXTentacion’s murderers mark the end of a long and painful chapter for his loved ones and fans worldwide. His tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence. As the music world mourns the loss of a talented young artist, the hope remains that his legacy will be one of remembrance and a call for peace.
